description White-winged Duck Overview
The white-winged duck, Asarcornis scutulata, is a large waterfowl species of South and Southeast Asia. It inhabits forest wetlands, swamps, slow-moving rivers, and pools, where it often rests in trees and feeds in or near water. Habitat loss, hunting, and the decline of suitable wetlands have reduced its range, and the species is classified as endangered because its remaining populations are small and fragmented.
help White-winged Duck FAQ
What is the scientific name and habitat of the white-winged duck?
The white-winged duck is Asarcornis scutulata, a large forest waterfowl of South and Southeast Asia. It favors shaded forest wetlands, swamps, pools, and slow-moving streams, and may roost or nest in trees.
Where is the white-winged duck found?
Its range includes northeast India and parts of mainland Southeast Asia and Sumatra, rather than the Americas. The species depends on forested water bodies, so habitat loss fragments its range.
Why is the white-winged duck threatened?
Recent 2024 conservation material from the Wildlife Trust of India describes it as Critically Endangered, while older references may still show Endangered. Habitat loss, hunting, and disturbance around forest wetlands are the main pressures named by conservation groups.
How does the white-winged duck differ from more familiar ducks?
It is a forest specialist that stays in secluded wetlands and can rest in trees, rather than living mainly on open lakes or farm ponds. Its scientific genus Asarcornis is distinct from the Muscovy duck genus Cairina, where it was once placed.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
